Severe Thunderstorm Hits Tulsa Area

Powerful storm brings gusty winds and hail until 10:30 PM CDT

Apr. 18, 2026 at 9:28am

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A dramatic landscape painting depicting a massive, swirling thundercloud formation dominating the sky over a small town, conveying the overwhelming power of an approaching severe storm.A looming thunderstorm system overwhelms the Tulsa skyline, underscoring the region's vulnerability to severe weather.Today in Tulsa

The National Weather Service has issued a Special Weather Statement for the Tulsa, Oklahoma area, warning of a severe thunderstorm bringing strong winds and hail until 10:30 PM Central Daylight Time. The storm is expected to impact the greater Tulsa metro region.

Why it matters

Severe thunderstorms can cause significant property damage, power outages, and pose a threat to public safety. The Tulsa area is prone to these types of weather events, and residents need to be prepared to take shelter and protect themselves.

The details

The thunderstorm is bringing wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail up to 1 inch in diameter. Residents are advised to seek shelter indoors and avoid being outside during the storm. Power outages and downed trees or power lines are possible.

  • The Special Weather Statement is in effect until 10:30 PM CDT on Friday, April 18, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing severe weather alerts.

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What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm and provide updates as needed. Residents should stay tuned to local media for the latest information and be prepared to take shelter if conditions worsen.

The takeaway

Severe thunderstorms can strike the Tulsa area with little warning, so it's important for residents to heed weather alerts, have a plan to seek shelter, and be ready to protect themselves and their property when these powerful storms hit.